Aurora Sarkar comes from India and has recently moved to Jena. In this interview, she talks about her journey to Germany, the bureaucratic hurdles involved in arriving, her impressions of life in Jena and why language skills and cultural openness are crucial for successful integration. She also shares personal observations and tips for people from abroad who are planning a new start in the City of Light.
Get to know Aurora Sarkar here
What country are you from and what made you decide to move to Jena?
I come from India. My husband got a job at the cyber security company ESET Deutschland GmbH in Jena, so I moved here with him.
What challenges did you face while arriving in Jena?
The biggest challenge when I arrived in Jena was finding a flat. Private landlords and some co-operatives asked for documents that my husband and I, as new arrivals in Germany, couldn’t possibly have. The documents frequently requested included: a Schufa credit report (not possible without a bank account), a certificate of no rental debts, liability insurance and household contents insurance (also not possible without a bank account) and in order to open a bank account we needed a fixed residential address. It was like a vicious circle.
What do you like about Jena? What is your favourite way to spend your free time?
I really like Jena. The small town, which is surrounded by hills, is very beautiful and cosy. I feel very comfortable and safe here. In my free time, I go for walks when it’s not too cold. When it’s cold, I sit by the living room window for hours, from where I have a beautiful view of the green meadow and the blue sky.
What has been the biggest change since you arrived in Jena?
Since my first stay in Germany as a student, I always wanted to return. The fact that I got this opportunity means a lot to me and I am very grateful for it.
Do you have any recommendations or advice for people from abroad who are planning to move to Jena?
I would recommend people from abroad to speak German at least at B1 level to be able to cope confidently and independently in everyday life. In many companies, such as banks or internet providers, which you will inevitably have to deal with as a foreigner, there is often little English spoken. In addition, all official documents are written in German. I would also like to point out to people that a signature is always required everywhere and is very important. That is why you should always read and understand everything carefully and thoroughly before signing.
Why do you think it is important for companies to be committed to diversity and cosmopolitanism?
Companies’ commitment to diversity and cosmopolitanism is important because people from different countries with different backgrounds are currently moving to Germany to work here. When companies hire such people, it is important to have mutual respect for each other and for their cultures. If you manage to do this, not only does the company grow, but so do the employees. This leads to more harmony and creates a positive atmosphere in the workplace.
Is there a German tradition or quirk that confuses you or that you find charming?
I find the Christmas season in Germany absolutely magical, because the festive spirit can be felt everywhere.
What are the biggest differences in everyday life and work between your home country and Jena? What tips would you give to people who want to settle in Jena?
The biggest difference between my home country and Jena is that work-life balance is very important here – regardless of which area you work in. This is not the case in India, especially for those who work in IT companies.
Another difference is that it’s absolutely quiet here, no street noise and I find that particularly nice. In contrast to my home country, where it’s always loud and there’s always something going on.
What is typically German/typically Jena for you?
I think typically German is the directness, which can sometimes seem a bit rude to foreigners, but is often simply meant honestly.
Thank you very much for the interesting interview about arriving in Jena. We wish you all the best for the challenges ahead!
